Airedale Terriers have been around for several hundred years. Today, these dogs are primarily companion dogs but they have served a variety of purposes throughout the past few centuries. Potential owners who are considering adopting an Airedale Terrier should thoroughly research these dogs to ensure that they will be a good fit for their lifestyle and their family.
Breed History: The Airedale Terrier
Approximately 100 years ago, the breed we know today as the Airedale Terrier was introduced. Beforehand, the dog (a descendant of the now extinct black-and-tan type terrier) went through several changes and crossbreeding with other dogs including the Otterhound and possibly the Manchester Terrier.
These dogs were used in the Valley of Aire in England, where he was used as both a vermin hunter and a small game hunter. It would be in the Valley of Aire where he would receive his breed name, “Airedale Terrier.” The Airedale Terrier would also go on to hunt larger game in Africa, Canada and India; and eventually the breed would also be used in World War II as both a wartime guard and a police dog.
The Airedale Terrier: Grooming and Appearance
The largest of the terrier group, the Airedale Terrier should be black and tan or grizzle and tan, no other colors are acceptable for this breed; though the AKC does permit “a red mixture on the back” or “a small white blaze on the chest.”
The Airedale Terrier has a double coat with a dense and wiry outer coat that lies close to the body. The outer coat may feature some waving or crinkling over the softer, shorter undercoat.
A male Airedale Terrier can grow up to 24 inches in height and weigh up to 65 pounds; with a female reaching just under at 23 inches and up to 45 pounds.
The Temperament of an Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers are an intelligent breed of dog and have been used around the world for a variety of purposes including companionship, competition, guarding, hunting, military work, rodent control, police work, tracking and as a watchdog.
This breed is described by owners to be loyal, responsive and intelligent. The American Kennel Club (AKC) adds that these dogs have a sweet disposition “but when challenged, [is] not afraid to stand up for himself.” It should be noted that during training, the Airedale may become bored if not thoroughly challenged, so engaging this dog during training is important; as boredom can lead to destructive and other bad behaviors.
Airedale Terriers will do well if exposed to small children when they are young. Proper socialization is a must to ensure that this dog breed retains its friendly disposition. However, they may be a bit rough when playing with smaller children such as toddlers, so supervision is a must.
The Airedale Terrier: Potential Health Issues
Airedale Terriers require a yard as they are very active dogs. This breed needs plenty of exercise with daily walks and playtime. With proper exercise, the well cared for Airedale Terrier can live upwards of 12 years.
Some lines in this breed may suffer from hip dysplasia, dry skin or eye problems. Fortunately, these issues aside, the Airedale Terrier tends to be very hardy and generally very healthy.
Jennifer Gittins - Jenne is a 23 year old writer, photographer and musician. She intends to go back to school when the economy picks up for a degree in ...
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